Essay Title: What do gated communities communicate about the societies in which they exist?

Introduction

1. What is a gated community? (Both the modern phenomena and its origins as a fortified settlement.)

• Explain which Marxist theories you will be applying to this structure. (Peoples change their environment in order to fulfil their needs but are then, in turn changed by it.)
• Introduce Marx's theory of the velvet glove approach to government.

Development

2. Using your research information, explain what needs are fulfilled by the construction of gated communities:

• The need for a feeling of security


• A need to be amongst like minded people


• A need to feel superior

3. Discuss what might encourage these needs i.e. focus on the media.

4. Again using your research material, what effects, positive or negative might the construction of gated communities have on those who live inside, or outside a gated community?

5. Explain how many countries' velvet glove approach to government is assisted by the large scale construction of gated communities. (Look at both the political and financial implications)

Conclusion

6. Using all evidence discussed so far, discuss what we can tell about a society by the number and types of gated communities that it constructs. (summative comment.)

7. Would you live in a gated community?